Frequently Asked Questions

What is LaMOMS?

Launched on January 1, 2003, LaMOMS is no-cost health coverage for any pregnant women, married or single, who fall into new expanded income guidelines.

Who can apply for LaMOMS?

Any pregnant woman, married or single, may apply for health coverage. Income limits are higher so working couples can make more money and still be eligible. We do not count resources such as bank accounts, cash on hand, cars or property.

Will the LaMOMS income limits change?

Income limits increase each year on April 1.

How can I apply for LaMOMS?

You must fill out an application form. If needed, someone can assist you in completing the form. You can get an application form from the Medicaid office in the parish where you live, at any of the participating Medicaid Application Centers, from our Web site by clicking here, or by calling 1.888.342.6207. The application form with your information can be mailed to your local Medicaid office.

What will happen to my LaMOMS application?

We will make a prompt decision and you will be notified no later than 45 days after we get your application.

Coverage can start as early as three months before the month we get your application (if you were pregnant during that time period). DON'T WAIT! Get the form to us as soon as you can.

What services are covered through the LaMOMS program?

We will pay for pregnancy-related services, delivery and care up to 60 days after your pregnancy ends including doctor visits, lab work/tests, prescription medicines and hospital care.

Can I choose my own doctor through the LaMOMS program?

You may use any doctor who is enrolled as a Medicaid provider.

To get a list of doctors, dentists or other medical service providers in your parish who take Medicaid, please visit our Provider Map page. This page will let you search for Medicaid services in your parish. If there is no doctor listed in your parish, try searching for doctors in your region or in the parishes around yours.

You can also call 1.877.455.9955 toll-free for a listing of specialists (including dentists) in your area who are enrolled and active in Medicaid programs.

It is important to remember that not all doctors who are active in the Medicaid program are taking new patients. Be sure to ask the doctor’s office if they are taking new Medicaid patients when you call to schedule an appointment. If you have private insurance in addition to LaMOMS, be sure to ask if your doctor accepts Medicaid as a "secondary" payer.

Can I be paid back for medical services I received before I applied for LaMOMS?

You may be eligible to be paid back for medical services received up to three months before you applied if:

You are eligible on the date the service was received, and

You used a Medicaid provider, and

The service is covered by the Medicaid program.

What if I am interested in LaMOMS but I already have insurance coverage?

You can have other insurance coverage in addition to LaMOMS. Your other insurance will pay first, and then Medicaid will cover the amount that is left, up to the Medicaid allowed amount.

How much will LaMOMS cost me?

There are NO enrollment fees, NO premiums, NO co-payments, and NO deductibles.

What if I am not a U. S. citizen?

Applicants for Medicaid must:

Provide the State with documentation of citizenship or alien status, and

Sign a declaration that the applicant is a citizen or national of the United States or an alien in a satisfactory immigration status.

If I am still waiting for my legal citizenship documents, am I covered?

If my income or household changes, will I lose my health coverage through LaMOMS?

Once enrolled, a pregnant woman will keep this coverage until 60 days after her pregnancy ends, regardless of income or household changes.

If I'm covered by LaMOMS, what health care coverage will my child have after birth?

When your child is born, he or she will automatically be enrolled in LaCHIP, the no-cost health insurance program for children under 19.

Who can I call for help to complete an application for any Medicaid program?

If you need help to complete the application form or to get any of the needed proof, please call us toll-free at 1.888.342.6207. If you are hearing impaired, you may call the TTY number at 1.800.220.5404.